Siesta Key and the greater Sarasota area has plenty of well-known and top-rated attractions such as Siesta Beach, Siesta Village, Ringling Museum, Bayfront Park, and more. In addition, there are also numerous hidden gems in this area that are well worth noting, especially if it is your first time visiting Siesta Key island. These locations and sights are family friendly and act as excellent additions to your Siesta agenda. Check out this article for a detailed review of 4 hidden gems on Siesta Key:
Van Wezel Performing Arts Center
A twenty minute drive from the heart of Siesta Key is the Van Wezel Performing Arts center, which showcases hit Broadway musicals, comedians, symphony orchestras, local Sarasota ballet and dance groups, and other international performers.
Seating a capacity of 1700, this local performing arts center was created in 1970 and has been dubbed a “crown jewel of sarasota bay”. Their mission is to “present a broad spectrum of the world’s finest performing artists in order to meet the diverse cultural needs of all of Southwest Florida’s residents and visitors”. Van Wezel balances between hosting school performances to encourage performing arts and showcasing live events, orchestra concerts, and award-winning musicals.
Van Wezel offers multiple season packages with the most popular being the Full Broadway Series, which features 9 productions across a year. Subscribers save 20% on ticket prices and get exclusive seat access before the general public.
Get a taste of local Sarasota culture and access to music & dance like you’ve never seen! Located at 777 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota FL.
Suncoast Science Center
A learning hub for all ages, the Suncoast Science Center is a great destination to tour if you have children with you! The science center features 3D printers, lasers, and electronics.
Each Saturday, the Science Center hosts “STEAM Saturdays” which is a class with a new STEAM theme like coding, engineering, chemistry, robotics, and more. Starting at just $45 a class, this is a great opportunity for kids to experiment, learn, and have fun all at the same time.
The Science Center was founded in 2014 and offers summer camps and classes to engage students in a learning experience inspired by STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). The environment serves as a judgment-free, collaborative zone where kids can challenge themselves, explore new and old interests, and make friends.Tour the lab today!
Bob’s Train
All aboard!! Bob’s Train is a restaurant and museum all in one. Serving lunch from 11-2 PM during the week, the restaurant is located inside of four different historic train railcars, one of which was owned by the Ringling family and custom built in 1916.
Inside, you’ll find a wealth of 1920s inspired memorabilia with themes such as circus, military, and Sarasota history. The trailer cars are packed with content for viewing and having a fantastic lunch or Sunday brunch. This unique location is packed with history and fantastic food.
Built and run by Bob Horne, he is passionate about serving quality food and sharing the history of Sarasota. One of the top sellers at this location is the homemade potato chips that are paired with each burger and sandwich. The grilled cheese with brie and jam is a huge hit, alongside the moose burger with mozzarella cheese!
Stop by this unique establishment for great food and history worth remembering. This is a great addition to have lunch during your Siesta Key vacation!
Siesta Key Farmers Market
Siesta Key hosts a weekly Farmers Market in support of small businesses, local farming, and culture. You will consistently find a collection of the most unique facets the island has to offer, from locally sourced vegetables and fruits, artisanal goods, exclusive artwork, and original items.
In addition to freshly grown produce and raw goods, many residents come to sell home-baked pastries and bread, specialty cheeses and coffees, and homemade products like soap, jams, jewelry, and artwork! This farmers market is the perfect place to get a snapshot of the local community and to purchase handmade gifts you cannot get anywhere else.
The farmers market typically hosts entertainment and music as well to showcase local talent in the Siesta Key region. The positive atmosphere cannot be beat!
Some Popular Vendors Include:
- @Siesta_Key_Rum – delicious, locally sourced rum. One of Florida’s finest craft spirits! The specialty coconut rum is fantastic.
- @Neighborhoodjuices – freshly pressed, organic fruit juices!
- @Lloyddobsonartist – vibrant, beach themed oil paintings!
- @Eatbreadbandits – freshly baked bread loaves & delectable pastries!
- Music from “Siesta John” – John Sallazo plays guitar & keyboard
The market is open on Sundays from 9 AM to 1 PM. Do note that some vendors may close early, so plan on attending during the peak hours of 10-11 AM to see all that the farmers market has to offer! Located at 5211 Ocean Blvd in the heart of Siesta Key Village. Parking can be found around Siesta Village, alongside Ocean Blvd, or even near the beach at Siesta Beach access point 2!
